Mayhew was also a prime mover in getting the League to join the National Pyramid, calling the Special General Meeting of clubs which eventually led to the historic decision being made.

Even worse was to follow when, as a result of dwindling committee support, officials took the reluctant step of tendering the club's resignation from the League.

However, following a positive response from a number of local people keen to see the Club continue, a new committee was formed under the chairmanship of John Smith and the resignation was withdrawn.

Unfortunately for the club, Neil's achievements resulted in him being snapped up by Durham City shortly after the start of last season, effectively putting our promotion aspirations on hold for at least another year.

However, with experienced Northern League manager Peter Mulcaster steadying the ship, the Club finished in a respectable mid-table position.

Neil Hixon returned as manager in 2005 and along with Stuart Gooden and former Sunderland & Scottish International George Herd put together a side that won promotion back to the First Division in the 2006–07 season.

Former players going on to join Football League clubs include Nigel Gleghorn (Ipswich and Manchester City), Bobby Davison (Halifax, Derby and Leeds) and Stephen Harper (currently with Sunderland AFC).